Understanding Adolescent Development
Expert-defined terms from the Certificate in Teenage Behaviour course at LearnUNI. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Acceptable Behaviour Contract #
a written agreement between an individual, often a teenager, and another party, such as a parent or authority figure, outlining the expected behaviour and consequences for not meeting those expectations. Related terms: behaviour management, parenting styles.
Adaptive Behaviour #
the ability to adjust to new or changing situations, a crucial aspect of teenage development. Related terms: coping mechanisms, resilience.
Adolescent Egocentrism #
a phenomenon where teenagers often focus on their own thoughts and feelings, struggling to consider other perspectives, a characteristic of adolescent development. Related terms: self-awareness, empathy.
Adolescent Identity Formation #
the process by which teenagers form their sense of self and identity, exploring different roles and relationships. Related terms: Erikson's stages, identity crisis.
Adrenaline #
a hormone released in response to stress or excitement, often associated with risk-taking behaviour in teenagers. Related terms: dopamine, stress response.
Affect Regulation #
the ability to manage and regulate one's emotions, a critical skill for emotional well-being. Related terms: emotional intelligence, mood swings.
Aggression #
behaviour intended to cause harm or intimidate others, a common challenge in teenage relationships. Related terms: anger management, conflict resolution.
Aggressive Behaviour #
actions that cause harm or intimidate others, often a result of unmanaged emotions or frustration. Related terms: bullying, violence.
Alexithymia #
a condition where an individual struggles to identify and express their emotions, common in some teenagers. Related terms: emotional awareness, emotional intelligence.
Anxiety #
a feeling of worry or apprehension, often experienced by teenagers in academic or social situations. Related terms: stress, fear.
Anxiety Disorder #
a mental health condition characterized by excessive anxiety or fear, affecting daily life and relationships. Related terms: depression, mental health.
Applied Behaviour Analysis #
a method of understanding and changing behaviour by analyzing its underlying causes and consequences. Related terms: behaviour modification, positive reinforcement.
Attachment Style #
the way an individual forms and maintains relationships, influenced by early childhood experiences. Related terms: attachment theory, interpersonal relationships.
Attachment Theory #
a framework for understanding how individuals form and maintain relationships, developed by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth. Related terms: attachment styles, interpersonal relationships.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) #
a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Related terms: attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity.
Attribution Theory #
a framework for understanding how individuals explain and interpret events and behaviour, influencing their motivation and self-esteem. Related terms: attribution style, self-perception.
Authenticity #
the quality of being genuine and true to oneself, an essential aspect of teenage identity formation. Related terms: self-awareness, individuality.
Authoritarian Parenting #
a parenting style characterized by high expectations and strict discipline, often resulting in rebellious behaviour in teenagers. Related terms: parenting styles, discipline.
Authoritative Parenting #
a parenting style that balances high expectations with warmth and support, promoting healthy development in teenagers. Related terms: parenting styles, parent-teen relationships.
Autonomy #
the ability to make decisions and act independently, a critical aspect of teenage development and self-expression. Related terms: independence, self-regulation.
Autonomy Support #
the provision of guidance and support that promotes autonomy and self-expression in teenagers. Related terms: parenting styles, teacher-student relationships.
Avoidance Behaviour #
actions taken to avoid or escape from stressful or anxiety-provoking situations, often resulting in negative consequences. Related terms: coping mechanisms, anxiety disorders.
Behaviour Management #
the use of techniques and strategies to manage and modify behaviour, often in educational or therapeutic settings. Related terms: behaviour modification, positive reinforcement.
Behavioural Activation #
a technique used to increase positive behaviour and motivation by focusing on enjoyable activities and reinforcement. Related terms: behavioural therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy.
Behavioural Therapy #
a type of therapy that focuses on changing maladaptive behaviour and promoting adaptive behaviour. Related terms: cognitive-behavioural therapy, behaviour modification.
Body Image #
an individual's perception of their physical appearance, often influenced by sociocultural factors and media representation. Related terms: self-esteem, eating disorders.
Boundary Setting #
the establishment of clear limits and expectations in relationships, essential for healthy development and communication. Related terms: assertiveness, conflict resolution.
Brain Development #
the process by which the brain matures and develops, influencing cognitive, emotional, and social abilities. Related terms: neuroplasticity, adolescent brain development.
Bullying #
behaviour intended to intimidate or harm others, often a result of power imbalances and social dynamics. Related terms: aggression, victimization.
Career Development #
the process by which individuals explore and pursue their career goals and aspirations, often influenced by interests, values, and abilities. Related terms: career guidance, vocational development.
Childhood Trauma #
adverse experiences that occur during childhood, often influencing adolescent and adult development and well-being. Related terms: trauma, resilience.
Cognitive Development #
the process by which individuals develop and refine their thinking and problem-solving abilities, influencing academic and professional success. Related terms: cognitive psychology, intelligence.
Cognitive #
Behavioural Therapy (CBT): a type of therapy that focuses on changing maladaptive thoughts and behaviours, promoting positive change and well-being. Related terms: cognitive therapy, behavioural therapy.
Communication Skills #
the ability to effectively convey and receive information, essential for healthy relationships and conflict resolution. Related terms: assertiveness, active listening.
Conflict Resolution #
the process by which individuals manage and resolve disagreements and conflicts, often requiring emotional intelligence and communication skills. Related terms: negotiation, mediation.
Conformity #
the tendency to align with social norms and expectations, often influencing teenage behaviour and decision-making. Related terms: peer pressure, social influence.
Conscience #
an individual's moral compass, guiding their decision-making and behaviour. Related terms: moral development, values.
Coping Mechanisms #
strategies used to manage and regulate stress and emotions, essential for well-being and resilience. Related terms: emotional regulation, stress management.
Creativity #
the ability to generate innovative and original ideas, often influenced by imagination and motivation. Related terms: imagination, problem-solving.
Critical Thinking #
the ability to analyze and evaluate information, making informed decisions and judgments. Related terms: problem-solving, decision-making.
Decision #
Making: the process by which individuals evaluate options and make choices, often influenced by values, goals, and consequences. Related terms: problem-solving, critical thinking.
Delinquency #
behaviour that violates social norms and expectations, often resulting in negative consequences and labeling. Related terms: juvenile delinquency, crime.
Depression #
a mental health condition characterized by persistent sadness and hopelessness, affecting daily life and relationships. Related terms: anxiety, mental health.
Developmental Assets #
positive factors that promote healthy development and well-being in teenagers, such as family support and community involvement. Related terms: protective factors, risk factors.
Developmental Psychopathology #
the study of abnormal development and psychopathology in teenagers, focusing on the causes and consequences of mental health issues. Related terms: psychopathology, mental health.
Dopamine #
a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, often influencing motivation and behaviour in teenagers. Related terms: reward system, addiction.
Eating Disorders #
conditions characterized by abnormal eating habits and body image concerns, often resulting in physical and emotional health problems. Related terms: anorexia, bulimia.
Emotional Intelligence #
the ability to recognize and regulate emotions in oneself and others, essential for healthy relationships and well-being. Related terms: emotional awareness, empathy.
Emotional Regulation #
the ability to manage and regulate emotions, influencing mental health and well-being. Related terms: emotional intelligence, coping mechanisms.
Empathy #
the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, essential for healthy relationships and communication. Related terms: emotional intelligence, compassion.
Erikson's Stages #
a theory of psychosocial development proposed by Erik Erikson, outlining eight stages of development from birth to old age. Related terms: psychosocial development, identity formation.
Executive Function #
a set of cognitive processes that enable individuals to plan, organize, and regulate their behaviour, influencing academic and professional success. Related terms: cognitive development, self-regulation.
Existentialism #
a philosophical approach that emphasizes individual freedom and choice, often influencing teenage identity formation and worldview. Related terms: humanism, philosophy.
Expectancy Theory #
a framework for understanding how individuals form expectations and goals, influencing their motivation and behaviour. Related terms: motivation, goal-setting.
Family Dynamics #
the patterns of interaction and relationships within families, influencing teenage development and well-being. Related terms: family therapy, parenting styles.
Fear #
a negative emotion characterized by a perceived threat or danger, often influencing behaviour and decision-making. Related terms: anxiety, phobias.
Friendship #
a close and supportive relationship between individuals, often providing emotional support and validation during adolescence. Related terms: peer relationships, social support.
Gang Involvement #
participation in a group of individuals who engage in delinquent or criminal behaviour, often resulting in negative consequences and labeling. Related terms: delinquency, crime.
Gender Identity #
an individual's sense of being male, female, or non-binary, often influencing self-concept and social relationships. Related terms: gender roles, sexuality.
Goal #
Setting: the process by which individuals establish and pursue goals, often influencing motivation and direction. Related terms: motivation, self-regulation.
Group Dynamics #
the patterns of interaction and relationships within groups, influencing teenage behaviour and social identity. Related terms: social influence, peer pressure.
Growth Mindset #
a mindset that emphasizes the ability to learn and develop through effort and persistence, often influencing academic and professional success. Related terms: motivation, self-efficacy.
Identity Formation #
the process by which individuals form and refine their sense of self and identity, often influenced by social and cultural factors. Related terms: self-concept, adolescence.
Impulsivity #
the tendency to act on impulse without considering the consequences, often resulting in negative outcomes and regret. Related terms: self-regulation, decision-making.
Independence #
the ability to think and act autonomously, often a key aspect of teenage development and self-expression. Related terms: autonomy, self-regulation.
Individuality #
the unique characteristics and traits that distinguish one individual from others, often influencing self-concept and social relationships. Related terms: identity, self-expression.
Influence #
the power to shape or affect the thoughts, feelings, or behaviour of others, often exerted through social relationships or media. Related terms: persuasion, manipulation.
Intelligence #
the ability to learn, reason, and adapt to new situations, often influencing academic and professional success. Related terms: cognitive development, intellectual ability.
Interpersonal Relationships #
relationships between individuals, often characterized by mutual influence and emotional connection. Related terms: social relationships, attachment styles.
Intimacy #
a close and personal relationship between individuals, often involving emotional and physical closeness. Related terms: attachment, romance.
Intrinsic Motivation #
motivation that arises from within, driven by interest and enjoyment rather than external rewards or pressure. Related terms: extrinsic motivation, self-determination.
Labeling Theory #
a framework for understanding how individuals are labeled and stigmatized by others, often influencing their self-concept and behaviour. Related terms: stigma, deviance.
Learning Disability #
a condition that affects an individual's ability to learn and process information, often requiring accommodations and support. Related terms: special education, disability.
Locus of Control #
an individual's perception of the source of control over their life and events, influencing their motivation and behaviour. Related terms: self-efficacy, autonomy.
Media Influence #
the impact of media on individual thoughts, feelings, and behaviour, often influencing teenage identity and values. Related terms: social media, media literacy.
Mental Health #
a state of well-being characterized by emotional and psychological stability, often influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Related terms: mental illness, wellness.
Mentoring #
a relationship between an experienced individual and a less experienced individual, often providing guidance and support for personal and professional development. Related terms: coaching, role-modeling.
Mindfulness #
the practice of being present and aware in the moment, often promoting emotional regulation and well-being. Related terms: meditation, self-awareness.
Moral Development #
the process by which individuals develop and refine their moral values and principles, influencing their decision-making and behaviour. Related terms: ethics, values.
Motivation #
the driving force behind an individual's actions and behaviour, often influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Related terms: self-determination, goal-setting.
Neuroplasticity #
the brain's ability to change and adapt in response to experience and learning, often influencing cognitive and emotional development. Related terms: brain development, cognitive development.
Non #
Verbal Communication: the conveyance of information and meaning through non-linguistic means, such as body language and facial expressions. Related terms: communication skills, social skills.
Norms #
shared expectations and standards that govern behaviour and interactions within a group or society, often influencing conformity and deviance. Related terms: social norms, cultural norms.
Object Relations Theory #
a framework for understanding how individuals form and maintain relationships, focusing on the internalization of objects and relationships. Related terms: attachment theory, psychoanalytic theory.
Observational Learning #
the process by which individuals learn and acquire new behaviours and skills through observation and imitation. Related terms: social learning, modeling.
Open #
Ended Questions: questions that encourage critical thinking and reflection, often used in educational and therapeutic settings to promote depth and insight. Related terms: questioning techniques, Socratic method.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) #
a condition characterized by a pattern of negative and defiant behaviour, often resulting in conflict and stress in relationships. Related terms: conduct disorder, behavioural problems.
Parent #
Teen Relationships: relationships between parents and teenagers, often influenced by communication styles, conflict, and emotional connection. Related terms: family dynamics, parenting styles.
Parenting Styles #
approaches to parenting that influence child development and well-being, often categorized as authoritarian, authoritative, or permissive. Related terms: parenting, child development.
Peer Pressure #
the influence exerted by peers on an individual's thoughts, feelings, and behaviour, often resulting in conformity or deviance. Related terms: social influence, group dynamics.
Perfectionism #
a tendency to strive for perfection and flawlessness, often resulting in stress, anxiety, and self-criticism. Related terms: self-esteem, motivation.
Personal Growth #
the process by which individuals develop and refine their skills, values, and identity, often resulting in increased self-awareness and confidence. Related terms: self-improvement, development.
Personality #
the unique combination of traits and characteristics that define an individual, often influencing their behaviour and interactions. Related terms: temperament, individuality.
Positive Reinforcement #
a technique used to increase positive behaviour by providing rewards and recognition, often used in educational and therapeutic settings. Related terms: behaviour modification, motivation.
Post #
Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): a condition characterized by symptoms of anxiety and hypervigilance following a traumatic event, often resulting in emotional and psychological distress. Related terms: trauma, stress.
Problem #
Solving: the ability to identify and resolve problems and challenges, often requiring critical thinking and creativity. Related terms: decision-making, critical thinking.
Psychodynamic Theory #
a framework for understanding human behaviour and development, focusing on the role of unconscious thoughts and feelings. Related terms: psychoanalytic theory, unconscious mind.
Psychological Abuse #
a form of abuse that involves emotional manipulation and control, often resulting in psychological and emotional distress. Related terms: emotional abuse, trauma.
Psychopathology #
the study of abnormal development and mental health issues, often focusing on the causes and consequences of mental health disorders. Related terms: mental health, abnormal psychology.
Puberty #
the period of physical and hormonal changes that occur during adolescence, often influencing emotional and social development. Related terms: adolescence, developmental stages.
Rebellion #
a form of behaviour that involves challenging authority and social norms, often resulting in conflict and stress in relationships. Related terms: nonconformity, deviance.
Relationship Therapy #
a type of therapy that focuses on improving relationships and communication between individuals, often used to address conflict and intimacy issues. Related terms: couples therapy, family therapy.
Resilience #
the ability to cope and adapt in the face of adversity and challenge, often influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Related terms: stress, coping mechanisms.
Risk Factors #
characteristics or circumstances that increase the likelihood of negative outcomes or problems, often used to identify individuals who may be at risk for mental health issues or behavioural problems. Related terms: protective factors, vulnerability.
Role #
Modeling: the process by which individuals learn and adopt behaviours and values by observing and imitating others, often used in educational and therapeutic settings. Related terms: observational learning, mentoring.
Romantic Relationships #
relationships characterized by romantic and emotional involvement, often influencing self-concept and identity during adolescence. Related terms: intimacy, attachment.
Schema #
a mental framework or concept that helps individuals organize and make sense of information and experiences, often influencing perception and interpretation. Related terms: cognitive development, knowledge representation.
Self #
Acceptance: the ability to accept and value oneself, often resulting in increased self-esteem and confidence. Related terms: self-esteem, self-worth.
Self #
Awareness: the ability to have a clear and accurate understanding of oneself, including one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Related terms: introspection, self-reflection.
Self #
Concept: an individual's overall perception and evaluation of themselves, often influencing self-esteem and confidence. Related terms: identity, self-awareness.
Self #
Determination: the ability to make choices and decisions that align with one's values and goals, often resulting in increased motivation and autonomy. Related terms: autonomy, self-regulation.
Self #
Efficacy: an individual's confidence in their ability to succeed and achieve their goals, often influencing motivation and performance. Related terms: confidence, motivation.
Self #
Esteem: an individual's overall evaluation and perception of themselves, often influencing confidence and self-worth. Related terms: self-concept, self-acceptance.
Self #
Regulation: the ability to regulate and manage one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, often resulting in increased autonomy and self-awareness. Related terms: self-control, emotional regulation.
Sexuality #
an individual's sexual identity, orientation, and expression, often influencing self-concept and relationships during adolescence. Related terms: gender identity, intimacy.
Social Cognitive Theory #
a framework for understanding how individuals learn and develop through observing and imitating others, often focusing on the role of observation, imitation, and reinforcement. Related terms: learning theory, social learning.
Social Comparison #
the process by which individuals compare and evaluate themselves in relation to others, often influencing self-esteem and motivation. Related terms: self-concept, social identity.
Social Identity #
an individual's sense of belonging and connection to a particular group or community, often influencing self-concept and behaviour. Related terms: group membership, social norms.
Social Influence #
the impact of social factors, such as peer pressure and social norms, on an individual's thoughts, feelings, and behaviour. Related terms: conformity, deviance.
Social Learning #
the process by which individuals learn and develop new behaviours and skills through observing and imitating others, often used in educational and therapeutic settings. Related terms: observational learning, modeling.
Social Skills #
the ability to interact and communicate effectively with others, often influencing relationships and social acceptance. Related terms: communication skills, interpersonal relationships.
Sociocultural Theory #
a framework for understanding how sociocultural factors, such as culture and social norms, influence development and behaviour. Related terms: cultural psychology, social influence.
Stages of Development #
a theoretical framework for understanding the sequence and progression of human development, often outlining specific stages or phases of growth and maturation. Related terms: developmental stages, life span development.
Stress #
a state of tension and anxiety resulting from physical or psychological demands, often influencing emotional and physical well-being. Related terms: anxiety, coping mechanisms.
Substance Abuse #
the misuse or dependence on substances, such as drugs or alcohol, often resulting in negative consequences and health problems. Related terms: addiction, recovery.
Suicidal Ideation #
thoughts or intentions to harm or kill oneself, often resulting in emotional and psychological distress. Related terms: depression, mental health.
Support Systems #
networks of people and resources that provide emotional, practical, and financial support, often influencing well-being and resilience. Related terms: social support, coping mechanisms.
Temperament #
an individual's natural and inherent personality traits and characteristics, often influencing behaviour and interactions. Related terms: personality, individuality.
Therapeutic Alliance #
the relationship and connection between a therapist and client, often influencing therapy outcomes and effectiveness. Related terms: therapy, counseling.
Therapy #
a process of exploration and change that aims to promote mental and emotional well-being, often using various techniques and approaches. Related terms: counseling, psychotherapy.
Trauma #
a distressing or stressful event that can have long-term effects on mental and emotional well-being, often requiring support and treatment. Related terms: post-traumatic stress disorder, recovery.
Trust #
the confidence and faith that individuals have in others, often influencing relationships and interactions. Related terms: loyalty, commitment.
Values #
the principles and beliefs that guide an individual's behaviour and decisions, often influencing motivation and direction. Related terms: morals, ethics.
Vulnerability #
the susceptibility to harm or influence, often resulting in negative consequences and exploitation. Related terms: risk factors, protection.
Wellness #
a state of physical, emotional, and mental well-being, often resulting from a combination of healthy habits and lifestyle choices. Related terms: health, self-care.
Youth Culture #
the values, beliefs, and practices that are unique to young people, often influencing identity and behaviour during adolescence. Related terms: adolescence, peer culture.